James E. O'Shea

On January 8, 2025, James E. O’Shea, age 71, passed away at home in Birmingham, MI. Jim was a beloved father, husband, grandpa, and friend. He died peacefully surrounded by love.

Jim was born on May 7, 1953, in Saginaw, MI to Edward and Mildred (Lessner) O’Shea, one of two children. He graduated from Michigan Technological University. Jim had an interesting and diverse career, working as a buyer for Sears, a vice-president at Brown Williamson Tobacco Co., and vice-president at Jays Potato Chip Co. He also had an entrepreneurial spirit, owned and operated an equipment company and a campground. Jim was the founder of Motown Snack Foods, he was a businessman who earned the respect of those around him.

An avid outdoorsman, adventurer and adrenaline seeker, Jim lived life to the fullest. Whether riding his Harleys, teaching rock climbing, skiing, snowmobiling, or swinging a golf club - wherever Jim was, joy was too. That joy extended through his volunteering efforts through an annual turkey drive, Leader Dogs for the Blind, and food banks, and others. He served as President of the Lions Club, and was honored with The Melvin Jones Fellowship Award. He served for many years on the board of Penrickton Center for Blind Children.

His most important role was being a family man, always putting his family’s needs first. He fiercely loved and protected his people. He is survived by his beloved wife, Miriam Jane (Black) O’Shea; his children, James (Luna) O’Shea and Paige (James) Carrow, Zachary Kucera; grandchildren Mya and James Carrow; and his sister, Lynne Nellemann. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Mildred O’Shea.

A private family ceremony will be held in his favorite place, Tail of the Dragon. Jim’s family and friends will miss him dearly and continue to make him proud.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Penrickton Center for Blind Children, 26530 Eureka Road, Taylor, MI 48180 or please click here  to donate https://penrickton.org/